Unlocking the future of energy: Electricity North West’s DFES 2024

We’re proud to present the seventh edition of our Distribution Future Electricity Scenarios (DFES). The DFES are used in our network planning and they are a crucial resource that forecasts scenarios for electricity demand, distributed generation (DG), battery storage, low carbon technologies uptake and over 40 datasets across the North West up to 2050.?

As the energy landscape evolves, so do our insights. This year’s DFES builds on extensive stakeholder engagement and advanced bottom-up forecasting, ensuring we provide a clear, data-driven picture of the region’s energy future.?

Key Insights from DFES 2024?

• Decarbonisation & economic development: We’ve engaged with local authorities and partners to map over 300 regional plans, shaping a smarter, more resilient energy system.??
• Rising demand & growth: After years of decline due to the energy and cost-of-living crisis,?we have observed a slight increase. Connection acceptances have surged following Ofgem’s reforms, driving new network developments.?
• Electrification trends: The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps (HPs) is steady but slightly slower than last year’s projections, reflecting post-pandemic market conditions. We’ve enhanced our EV and heavy-duty vehicle modelling and incorporated district heating networks for the first time.?
• New data for smarter decisions: For the first time, we’re publishing forecasts for all 30,000 LV substations—available via our new DFES LV workbook providing seamless access to demand and low-carbon technology insights.?

Why It Matters?

DFES is not just a forecast, it’s a strategic tool to support a cost-efficient Net Zero transition, guiding infrastructure planning, investment, and innovation across the North West. It also plays a key role in delivering the UK Government’s Clean Power 2030 ambitions.?

Explore the full DFES report and access our data here:?Distribution future electricity scenarios

What do you think of this year’s findings? Let’s continue the conversation, comment below or get in touch! ?